Reiki, An Alternative & Holistic Practice

Reiki, a form of ‘energy medicine’ is a practice that comes from ancient traditions of natural and holistic healing and spirituality.

Credit: Thinkstock – DragonImages

Like many other holistic therapies, Reiki treats the whole person. It works on the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual aspects of the body, strengthening a person’s natural and innate ability to heal. Mikao Usui, the founder of Reiki, described it as “the secret of inviting happiness, the medicine for all dis-ease.”

Benefits can include: release of trauma, an increased sense of wellbeing, reduced pain, improved sleep, calming and relaxation of the nervous system and a reduction in heart rate and blood pressure. 

Reiki is increasingly being provided in a range of settings including, holistic centers, spas and even hospitals. Individual Reiki sessions usually last around 50 minutes with the client fully clothed and comfortable in a sitting or lying position. Light touch on or off the body is applied depending on the individual’s need and preference. The recipient may experience energy movement, tingling, warmth, thoughts, emotions and an increase in sensory and spiritual awareness and deep relaxation.  Everyone has a different experience and the experience can vary from one session to the next.

Ki is the “life force” is Reiki

The “ki” in Reiki refers to our vital life force energy, (this “life force” is also referred to as prana, sekhem and chi).  When we receive a Reiki treatment, the Practitioner channels high vibrational energy through his/her hands to help the recipient to release blockages and realign the bio energetic field.  The channelled energy harmonises and balances the “ki” enabling natural healing to take place.

Reiki has shown to work well alongside many other complementary and traditional western therapies.   

Additional aspects of Reiki as a complementary intervention include: it is safe, non invasive, has no adverse effects and does not require the recipient to have any particular level of functioning, participation or belief.  It assists and supports relaxation, stress and tension release and makes one more predisposed to natural healing. 


Stephanie Cookson is a Holistic Practitioner, Reiki, Sekhem Master/Teacher, Registered Nurse (MH-UK), MBA and a Registered Teacher with the Canadian Reiki Association.